7 Quirks of Owning a Business as a Neurodivergent Graphic Designer
Let’s dive into what it means to be a neurodivergent graphic designer — commitment to excellence, freedom of choice, flexible work-life balance, intentional work environment, strategic communication preferences, and proficiency in the visual realm as a means of self-expression.
The Freedom to Curate My Work Life
In my professional journey as a freelancer, I cherish the freedom to select projects that genuinely excite me and to work with clients whose values align with mine. This drive for autonomy excites my passion for each and every project that I accept.
Devotion to Design Excellence
Design is not just a profession for me; it's a profound interest that I approach with complete authenticity. My commitment to delivering the best possible outcome for clients propels me into extensive research, ensuring that I find optimal solutions for every challenge. Importantly, I leave my ego at the door, recognizing that true success lies in serving the needs of those I work with.
Flexibility as a Lifestyle
A key advantage of my career path is the flexibility it affords. Whether attending doctor's appointments, spending quality time with family, managing household chores, preparing meals, or simply resting, a flexible schedule ensures that I can prioritize self-care on my terms. This balance is crucial for maintaining both professional and personal well-being.
Silencing the Office Chatter
The absence of daily small talk in a traditional office setting is a huge benefit of working from home. Engaging in constant social interactions with coworkers can be draining and distracting for someone like me. Despite enjoying the camaraderie, the overstimulation of computer hums, bright lights, and general office commotion can take a toll on my nervous system. Embracing a quieter, focused environment allows me to optimize my productivity and maintain a higher level of energy.
Strategic Communication Choices
Limiting phone calls is another intentional aspect of my work style. I reserve phone conversations for essential project kick-offs or client revisions. I prefer clear communication through text and email over long video and/or phone calls. This approach aligns with my goal of streamlining communication processes, reserving phone calls only when clients express a preference for them, and even then, typically limited to one call per project milestone.
“We surveyed 182 senior managers in a range of industries: 65% said meetings keep them from completing their own work. 71% said meetings are unproductive and inefficient. 64% said meetings come at the expense of deep thinking. 62% said meetings miss opportunities to bring the team closer together.” — Harvard Business Review
Harnessing Self-Control through Routine
My home office serves as a sanctuary of self-control. Establishing a routine within this space empowers me to thrive. From choosing the decor to setting the ambiance, every aspect of my day is tailored to ensure motivation and focus, enhancing my overall work experience.
Visual Proficiency in Communication
While verbal communication may pose challenges in spontaneous situations, my proficiency shines through in text and imagery. Embracing the visual realm allows me to articulate my thoughts at my own pace, bridging the gap between my silent gravity with speaking on the spot and my ability to convey ideas eloquently through visual mediums.
Let this be an invitation to reflect on your own career path and make deliberate choices that align with your passion and values. Your journey is yours to shape — embrace the autonomy and craft a narrative that resonates with the essence of who you are.
Got a question? Don’t hesitate to send a raven.
